eye exam Atlanta

Currently, cataracts are the world’s leading cause of blindness and are seen often by the licensed physicians at Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons. While scientists have labored tirelessly for decades to configure the foundation of their formation, recent developments have been discovered that may lead to exact cause.

The powerful focusing ability in the human eye is credited to three kinds of crystallin proteins in their lenses. The intricate lenses of the eye maintain transparency by their ability to repel and attract light. While two types of crystallin are structural, the third keeps the other variations of crystallin from forming into cataracts if they are altered by genetic mutation, ultraviolet light or chemical damage,” states the study. “Understanding the molecular mechanism of what goes wrong in the eye that leads to a cataract could lead to the development of better treatment options, including more sophisticated artificial lenses and drugs,” stated a professor at UC Irvine, who conducted the cataract study published in the December 2013 issue of Structure.

The researchers identified the structures of the normal proteins and a genetic mutation known to cause cataracts in young children, finding that the third type of protein mentioned above binds far better to the mutated proteins. While this may seem to be a minute detail, it is the process which keeps the lens clear and cataract-free. Unfortunately, the human eye contains a limited number of these proteins, and once they are expended, researchers found that weakened ones quickly begin to accumulate and form blinding cataracts.

Researchers hope to use their findings to create sight-saving treatments that prevent the accumulation of cataract-causing crystallin proteins. By 2019, it is estimated that many more people over the age of 50 will be impacted by vision loss because of cataracts. At Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons, we are hopeful that this research will lead to bigger and better ways of saving eyesight. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. William Segal performs cataract surgery and lens replacement for patients experiencing cataracts, and recommends that patients undergo routine eye exams to regularly check for early signs of cataract formation.

If you are interested in a procedure or eye exam at Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons, please contact us today. Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+for eye news, updates, and specials.

Computer usage is at an all-time high for many people as we approach the end of 2013, with clocked hours flowing overtime to make up for the time off often taken around the holidays. For those who use a computer often, either for work or to avoid mile-long department store lines by online shopping, computer vision syndrome can become a problem. In fact, The Vision Council reported last year that almost 70% of U.S. adults experience some sort of eye strain from digital devices. Below, Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons provides tips for avoiding the discomfort that accompanies keeping your eyes on the screen for extended periods of times.

The right lighting is vital for maintaining healthy vision. A desk lamp on your desk is healthier for the eyes than florescent overhead lighting. If you must have overhead lights in your office, your computer should be positioned so that it does not reflect any light from them or any open windows, which should ideally be to the sides of you rather than in front or behind. This is also essential as disregarding eye health can lead to a change in eye prescription over time.

Keep your computer screen at least 20 inches away from your eyes. The position, size, and brightness of your computer greatly influence how you’ll be affected by time spent at the desk. Center your monitor four to six inches below your eyes, big enough to see without leaning in closely, and bright enough to easily see. Additionally, be sure that text size is large enough that you are comfortable reading it without squinting.

Blink, blink, and blink again. While it may seem obvious, blinking often does not always come easy when you are in the zone. Blink often and use artificial tears to moisturize the eyes as necessary, especially if you have dry eyes or wear contact lenses.

Take a quick rest. Every 20 minutes, it’s important to remember the simple 20-20-20 rule to look away at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Set reminders on your computer if needed!

Schedule an eye exam. If tired eyes, headaches, and neck pain are still bothersome, visit Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons’ board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. William Segal or optometrist Dr. Marc Lay to find the right solution for you. We can prescribe a prescription pair of glasses or corrective lenses specifically for computer-use.

To make an appointment, please contact us today. Be sure to follow Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for more tips for healthy eyes. Happy Holidays!

Our Commitment:

At Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons we’re committed to exceptional eye care for our patients and their families. We know how much the health of your eyes means for your quality of life. We’re committed to serving your complete eye care needs with the respect and care we would use in treating our own family.

Disclaimer: Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons, P.C.'s website is intended as educational information and not explicit medical advice. Please consult a board certified ophthalmologist for advice concerning your individual eye health or recommendations on treatment for eye disease. Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons, P.C. will not be held accountable for any gaps in information or inaccuracies presented on this site or any associated online publications.